Click HERE to listen to Lisa Caprioglio's segment on native plants with NPR's Michele Norris.

Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis) is one of my favorite native plants.  This small tree, (about 25-30 feet tall) beautifully marks the passage of the seasons.  The delicate white blossoms of early spring, small purple fruits in the summer, orange leaves in fall, and gray bark of winter act as a living calendar. 

Serviceberry, also known as Shadblow, prefers moist conditions and part shade to full shade.  Plant Serviceberry among tall shade trees to create an understory for a naturalistic woodland garden.  The small size of Serviceberry also works well in small townhouse gardens and tight spots in narrow side yards.  This moisture-loving tree can be part of a rain garden. 

Do not worry about sweeping up messy fruits.  Orioles and dozens of other species of birds will eat the berries before they hit the ground.  If we’re lucky, those birds will help plant more Serviceberry trees.

How do I learn more?

Native plant gardens to visit

National Arboretum

U.S. Botanic Garden

Native plant nursery

Nature by Design

Organizations

Maryland Native Plant Society 

Virginia Native Plant Society 

Plant lists:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service